THE FORMER manager of one of Reading’s most well-known queer venues had passed away, family and friends have announced.
Simon Hallam, who managed the Wynford Arms for more than two decades, died on Saturday, June 7.
He managed the pub on Kings Road for 22 years, during which it was one of the only LGBTQIA+ venues in the town.
It became the first queer-friendly pub in Reading when it opened in 1992, since which it became the birthplace of the Reading Pride movement.
Founders of Reading Pride had their first meeting at the venue, which had held the first Pride March in the town in 2007, as well as having held numerous fundraisers and queer socials there.
It was frequented by a number of notable town regulars including Brenda Bendover, DJ Cliffy, and Cookie’s Karaoke.
The Wynford Arms won a number of awards, including multiple Pride of Reading Awards, and Simon himself received the Reading Pride Community Campaigner Award in 2009.
The Wynford Arms closed in 2015 following a long, “acrimonious” battle with landlords over rent and lease renewal.
Owners posted to social media in May of that year explaining: “It is with great sadness we have to announce the closure of The Wynford Arms after serving the LGBT community and its friends in Reading for the past 22 years.
“The Wynford was the first full-time gay pub in Reading when it opened in October 1992 and we have been there for the community 365 days a year since then.
“Unfortunately, we have had to operate without the support or co-operation of the pub company for many years.
“We have enjoyed some fantastic times over the years and would like to say a huge thank you to all the staff and our loyal customers who have supported us.
“We are very sorry we can no longer be there for them.”
The closure of the Wynford Arms directly influenced Reading’s nightlife venues, as the Blagrave Arms was opened to address the lack of a dedicated LGBTQIA+ venue.
Mark Lawrence, Reading Pride Ambassador, said following the announcement: “The Wynford Arms, affectionately known as ‘The Wynnie’, was one of Reading’s longest-running LGBTQ+ venues and a vital safe space for the community for over two decades.
“Managed for much of its life by Simon Hallam, the pub earned a reputation not only for its welcoming environment but also for its vibrancy and character.”
He explained: “Simon was widely regarded as a quiet yet pivotal figure in Reading’s LGBTQ+ scene.
“Often seen sat at the bar blending in with other patrons, he was the steady hand behind the venue’s success.
“His leadership and dedication helped make the Wynford a cultural hub–it became known for its weekly drag performances, occasional cabaret and strip acts, and even theatrical productions put on by staff and regulars.
“The venue was also home to what many considered two of the best DJs outside of London at the time—DJ Cliffy and DJ Waynie—who helped establish the Wynford as the essential Friday and Saturday night destination before patrons continued their night at other local venues such as The Granby.
He said of the pub: “[It] attracted a diverse crowd and became a place of deep social connection for many.
“It played a significant role in fostering visibility for trans individuals within Reading, offering a rare and valuable space for expression and community away from the capital.
“The Wynford Arms was not only a venue but a cultural landmark. It was where many friendships were formed and where local figures such as David, a long-time regular, and Joe, a former barman, became part of the venue’s story.
“Though many of its characters have since passed, the impact of the Wynford lives on as a symbol of resilience, joy, and queer community spirit in Reading.”
The trustees of Reading Pride released the following joint statement in the wake of the news: “It is with great sadness that we reflect on the passing of Simon Hallam — a true pioneer and quiet champion of Reading’s LGBTQ+ community.
“As trustees of Reading Pride, we wish to express our deepest thanks for all he gave to our town.
“Simon was the heart of The Wynford Arms, one of Reading’s longest-serving LGBTQ+ venues. Under his care, it became more than just a pub — it was a safe haven, a stage for expression, and a cornerstone of our community.
“Through his dedication, creativity and leadership, The Wynford thrived for over two decades and played host to countless memories, friendships, and milestones.
“It was within those very walls that Reading Pride held its first meetings. In 2007, The Wynford helped bring our community together for a small but powerful parade through the town centre. We owe so much of our journey at the very beginning to the space Simon helped build and the spirit he nurtured.
“His contribution was rightly recognised in 2004 with the Pride of Reading Pub of the Year award, and again in 2009 when he received Reading Pride’s Community Campaigner Award.
“But Simon never sought accolades — he simply gave his time, his energy, and his kindness to ensure that LGBTQ+ people in Reading had somewhere to belong.
“At this time, we are holding his partner, David, and his family in our thoughts – their loss is deeply felt by all of us who knew Simon, and by the wider community he helped shape.
“Thank you, Simon. Your legacy lives on in every step we march and every space we hold.”
